Safe Communities Blog

Welcome back to the SCTF blog. I hope you’ve had a wonderful winter season filled with holiday joy, community and warmth!

Have you ever heard the phrase, “New year, new me” or, “New year, new you?” (Hint: you may have also seen it as #NewYearNewMe). To usher in the New Year I have a special challenge for you: create a personal brand.(Click here if you missed out on my last challenge).

A brand is a sort of reputation or identity. It encompasses the many things people associate with a brand name. For example Nike may evoke images of sports, strength, quality, competition or “Just do it.”

A personal brand is the same thing except for individual people instead of companies or groups. This is described using what I'll call a personal brand statement. I brainstormed a few things you can include in your statement:

Your personal mission or underlying drive

Stories people think of when hearing your name

Symbols you believe in or values you hold

Unspoken vibes or energy you emanate

Things you’re passionate about

Activities that bring you restoration or fulfillment

Words describing how you’d like to be seen, or how you see yourself

Think about how you’d like to project your sense of self into the world in 2018. What pieces of your identity are most important and bring you the most pride? Are you able to turn these into a catchphrase or statement?

People spend a lot of time considering “Who am I?” I first heard of personal brands when I was in a college marketing class and had to create one for myself. After much introspection I decided I am a Warrior of Wonderment. The personal brand statement I wrote is below.

Wonderment means being fearlessly energetic about all life has to offer. It means providing love to those around you and serving as a beacon of hope. It means making sacrifices and space for people you care about. Finding value in the experiences of others and offering support. It’s about acknowledging people for their time and effort. Being joyful and embracing the youthful spirit in us all.Wonderment can be found in the darkest of places and shines like a little ball of light that grows if you offer it room in your heart.

“I am the Warrior of Wonderment.” I repeat this line to myself every day when I am scared, self-conscious, nervous or timid. I also say it when I’m proud, excited, and joyful. It’s short, meaningful and reminds me of my potential.

Your statement can be one word, five sentences or even an essay! Make it silly, serious... play around with the idea and make it your own. Know that it can change or grow overtime just as you do. So tell me, who are you? I challenge you to develop a personal brand and stay true to yourself as best you can in 2018.